A Framework of Teacher Characteristics for Student Motivation

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Undoubtedly, the teacher's personal and professional qualities are essential in quality instruction. The effectiveness of a teacher is thereby measured when he or she can satisfy the motives and needs of the learners, thus allowing the students to achieve the process as exhibited by the expert interplay of both professional and personal qualities which play a vital role in motivating the learners. The study aimed to describe the characteristics of science teachers to enhance student motivation of four public high schools in the Division of Calamba City.

METHODS

The descriptive correlational design was employed in this study. Three groups of the respondent, which consist of high, average, and low performing students, were drawn purposively from each school. The research instrument used was a combination of self-made validated and adopted validated survey questionnaire aimed to assess teacher characteristics in terms of pedagogical competence, evaluation skills, professionalism, physical characteristics, psychological characteristics, emotional and social skills, and extra assistance. The data obtained from the survey were analyzed using the arithmetic mean to describe the perception of the respondent. The Pearson-Product Moment Coefficient of Correlation was used to determine the relationship between teacher characteristics and student motivation.

RESULTS

It was found out that the perceptions of students on characteristics of science teacher were "highly observed." The top three components of teacher characteristics found in the study which are considered strengths were professionalism, extra assistance given to students, and psychological characteristics. While weaknesses found were evaluation skills, pedagogical competence, physical characteristics, and social and emotional characteristics. The study revealed that the academic achievements of students are significantly related to teacher characteristics.

DISCUSSIONS

Based on the result, a framework of teacher characteristics' to enhance student motivation was developed. Indicators which considered weaknesses were provided strategies to improve teachers' practice as perceived by the respondents in teaching Science that in effect, it will help increase student motivation in Science subject.